New Star Soccer 3 is a superb sequel to New Star Soccer 2, a unique soccer simulation/RPG title that breaks the mold by putting you in control of *one* soccer player as he builds up his career from scratch. The more matches you play, the more you will improve your skills, negotiate for better pay, win awards, earn money to buy personal items, and even start a romantic relationship. This sequel adds another level that catapults the game from “great” to “Hall of Belated Fame material.” For the first time in the series, you can control your player’s actions in matches, which are played in beautiful 2D graphics and use control mechanics that fans of Sensible Soccer will enjoy. The blurb at Indygamer explains in more detail:

“Sensible Soccer and Football Manager. A potent mix, but New Star Soccer 3 has managed to do it by combining the best elements from a classic and the current football simulation champion.

Take control of your own superstar, starting off his career by going through a trial at your selected club. After completing several tasks you will be drafted into the first team right away, where you have to earn your place every week with some sort of consistent performance. The manager will not hesitate to drop average players and if that happens to you, be prepared to warm the bench for some time.

A very interesting addition to the game is the call for ball feature. By pressing SPACE when you’re not in possession of the ball, your teammate will attempt a pass to you. Now you don’t have to run around the field like a headless chicken. Just like Sensible Soccer, you can put a spin to all your shots. This is assuming that you have allocated some points to improve your flair and shooting skills. Real player names are used, and the roster is as updated as it can be. You can play alongside your favourite European stars, and will probably play against most of them if you do well for your club.

Train your player every chance you get. You will need him in top condition in preparation for the Goal of the Month competition, in which you can showcase your footballing skills and win some prizes in the process!” A must-have independent game that is worthy of the $19.95 registration price, and a proud entrant into our Hall of Belated Fame.